10 Cheap Days Out in January
Explore Surrey and London on a Budget
The festive season might have left you clutching your wallet like it’s a precious heirloom, but January doesn’t have to mean hibernation. Surrey and London offer plenty of cheap days out. Here are 10 ideas with all the practical details you’ll need to plan your visit.
Box Hill is a fantastic place to head for a cheap day out - offering miles of walks and play areas for kids.
CHEAP DAYS OUT IN surrey
1. Winter Walk at Box Hill
Address: Box Hill, Tadworth, KT20 7LB
Cost: Parking starts at £5
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/box-hill
Stretch your legs and enjoy views of the Surrey Hills. It’s a hill, it’s free (after parking), and it’s so so close. Bring a flask because the café prices might make you weep.
2. Hatchlands Park
Address: East Clandon, Guildford, GU4 7RT
Cost: Free for National Trust members; non-members from £11 (adults)
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park
Enjoy a wander around the grounds or pretend you’re living your best Jane Austen life. National Trust membership pays for itself if you’re a regular.
3. Guildford Museum
Address: Castle Arch, Guildford, GU1 3SX
Cost: Free
Website: www.guildford.gov.uk/museum
It’s free, it’s indoors, and you’ll learn something vaguely useful about Guildford’s history. What not to like?
Frensham Ponds are stunning and a free day out in Surrey.
4. Frensham Ponds
Address: Priory Lane, Frensham, Farnham, GU10 3BT
Cost: Free
Website: www.surreyhills.org
A tranquil spot for a winter picnic—yes, that’s a thing. Bring soup or sandwiches and try not to fall in the pond.
5. Brooklands Museum
Address: Brooklands Road, Weybridge, KT13 0QN
Cost: Advance tickets: Adults £24, Children (4-17) £10.50. Check online for family deals.
Website: www.brooklandsmuseum.com
If you’ve ever wanted to see a Concorde up close or learn about the glory days of motorsport, this one’s for you. Yes, it’s slightly pricier, but it’s a good option if you’ve got kids to entertain.
Free London attractions are a great way to get out and about in January
Cheap days out in London
6. The Sky Garden
Address: 1 Sky Garden Walk, London, EC3M 8AF
Cost: Free, but you must book online in advance.
Website: www.skygarden.london
London views for zero pounds. What’s the catch? Well, you’ll need to secure a booking slot, so don’t leave it until the night before.
7. Southbank Winter Wander
Address: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX
Cost: Free (unless you’re tempted by the food stalls)
Website: www.southbankcentre.co.uk
Take a riverside walk, enjoy street performers, and people-watch. Pro tip: resist the artisanal hot chocolate if you’re keeping it cheap.
8. Museum of London Docklands
Address: No.1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London, E14 4AL
Cost: Free
Website: www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands
Discover London’s maritime history with interactive exhibits. Ideal for families or anyone who needs to escape the cold.
Greenwich Park and Observatory Hill are a great cheap day out destination.
9. Greenwich Park and Observatory Hill
Address: Greenwich Park, Greenwich, London, SE10 8QY
Cost: Free
Website: www.royalparks.org.uk/greenwich-park
Climb Observatory Hill for views of London’s skyline that will make you forget how much your feet hurt.
10. Epping Forest
Address: Epping Forest, Loughton, IG10 4AF
Cost: Free
Website: www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/epping-forest
Head to the forest for a peaceful escape from the city. Check for guided walks, which are often free or very cheap.
Making your own food is a good way to save money this January
Money-Saving Tips
Pack Food: Avoid overpriced cafés. A homemade sandwich never hurt anyone.
Book in Advance: Many attractions offer cheaper tickets if you book ahead.
Consider Memberships: If you’re a fan of National Trust or similar organisations, a membership can save you money in the long run.
Use Public Transport: Ditch the car. Parking fees can be the bane of any budget outing.
Cheap coffee shops in Surrey are great for keeping costs down in January
Keeping COSTS DOWN IN JANUARY
So, there you have it. Ten affordable ways to make January a little less bleak. Whether you’re braving the Surrey hills or soaking up London culture, you’ll have a great day out without maxing out your overdraft.
Looking to keep things simple? Find a soft play for your kids, so you can have a coffee while they run wild.